Fragrance cartridge

Abstract

To provide a fragrance cartridge capable of ingesting cannabinoid by smoking.SOLUTION: A fragrance cartridge comprising: a cylindrical cover; a fragrance base material containing a ground and dried product of a plant, the fragrance base material being housed on one end side of the cover and generating an aerosol containing a fragrance component by being heated; a filter housed on the other end side of the cover; and a cannabinoid-containing substance, wherein the cannabinoid-containing substance is encapsulated by being enclosed in a shell using gelatin or modified cellulose, and is contained in any one or more locations of the fragrance cartridge.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aroma cartridge that is attached to an inhalation device having an electric heating means and that is capable of generating an aerosol containing an aromatic component when heated by the electric heating means. [Background technology]

[0002] Cannabinoids have been shown to have sedative and analgesic effects, etc. To obtain these benefits, cannabinoids are added to the cartridges of electronic cigarettes, which generate vapor by heating a liquid.

[0003] As an example of the use of such cannabinoids, Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid composition for electronic cigarettes that contains at least cannabinoids contained in hemp stems or seeds, caffeine, and a solvent. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-110045 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The vapor of an electronic cigarette such as that described in Patent Document 1 is generated by heating a liquid to which flavors and the like have been added. On the other hand, in heated tobacco products, an aerosol is inhaled from a base material containing a dried plant material such as tobacco leaves or black tea leaves, and an aerosol former capable of generating an aerosol by heating. Because the heated object of electronic cigarette vapor is a liquid, there is a problem in that the flavor is less complex than the aerosol of heated tobacco products.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and aims to provide an aroma cartridge that allows cannabinoids to be ingested by smoking. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention provides an aroma cartridge that is attached to an inhalation device having an electric heating means and generates an aerosol when heated by the electric heating means, the aroma cartridge comprising a cylindrical cover, an aroma base material housed at one end of the cover that generates an aerosol containing an aromatic component when heated, a filter housed at the other end of the cover, and a cannabinoid-containing substance, the cannabinoid-containing substance being in a liquid or solid state or encapsulated and contained in one or more locations of the aroma cartridge.

[0008] According to the present invention, a cannabinoid-containing substance is contained in the aroma base and / or the filter in liquid or solid form, or is encapsulated and contained in one or more of the aroma cartridges, thereby allowing the cannabinoid to be contained in the aerosol generated from the aroma base. As a result, the user can inhale the aroma components and vaporized cannabinoids generated from the aroma base together with the aerosol, and can expect to experience the physiological effects of the cannabinoids while enjoying the aroma of the aroma components.

[0009] In the aroma cartridge of the present invention, the aroma base material preferably comprises a ground and dried plant material, an aerosol former, and a sorbent for sorbing the cannabinoid-containing substance into the aroma base material, and the cannabinoid is preferably contained in a raw material for the aroma base material. The sorbent preferably comprises at least one of cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone and cyclodextrin.

[0010] According to the above aspect, cannabinoids are mixed into the raw materials of the aroma base material, so that when the aroma base material is heated, the aroma components generated from the aroma base material and the vaporized cannabinoids are released together with the aerosol, allowing the user to effectively inhale the cannabinoids while enjoying the aroma of the aroma components.

[0011] In the aroma cartridge of the present invention, the aroma cartridge includes the cylindrical cover, the aroma substrate, the filter, and a support member arranged between the aroma substrate and the filter, and it is preferable that the cannabinoid-containing substance is encapsulated and arranged in at least one location selected from (a) within the aroma substrate, (b) between the aroma substrate and the support member, (c) within the support member, (d) between the support member and the filter, and (e) within the filter.

[0012] According to the above aspect, the cannabinoid-containing substance is encapsulated, and when smoking, the capsule is heated, melted, or destroyed, allowing the cannabinoid-containing substance to leak out. This allows the user to inhale a high concentration of cannabinoids, which can be expected to have a greater physiological effect.

[0013] In the aroma cartridge of the present invention, the cannabinoid contained in the cannabinoid-containing substance is preferably cannabidiol.

[0014] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, cannabidiol is known to have anti-anxiety, anti-epileptic, neuroprotective, vasorelaxant, anti-convulsant, anti-ischemic, anti-cancer, anti-emetic, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and bone growth promoting effects, and therefore various physiologically active effects can be expected.

[0015] In the aroma cartridge of the present invention, the cannabinoid-containing substance is preferably dissolved in a solvent selected from oils and fats and alcohol-based solvents.

[0016] According to the above aspect, the cannabinoid-containing substance can be dissolved in a solvent selected from oils and fats, and alcohol-based solvents, making it easier to mix or impregnate the aromatic base material or the filter, or to encapsulate the cannabinoid-containing substance.

[0017] The aroma cartridge of the present invention preferably contains at least one substance selected from menthol, caffeine, catechin, and a flavoring agent in addition to the cannabinoid-containing substance.

[0018] According to the above embodiment, in addition to the cannabinoid, at least one selected from menthol, caffeine, catechin, and fragrance is contained, which can further impart a refreshing feeling, an awakening effect, a deodorizing effect, an antibacterial effect, a flavor, and the like.

[0019] In the fragrance cartridge of the present invention, the fragrance base material preferably contains a molding agent that reinforces the physical strength. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the aroma cartridge of the present invention, a cannabinoid-containing substance is contained in one or more locations of the aroma cartridge, so that the user can ingest cannabinoids by smoking. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aroma cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the fragrance cartridge. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the aroma cartridge. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing the steps for producing the fragrance base material of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the process for producing the raw material (A2) in FIG. 5. [Figure 7]FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing another manufacturing process of the fragrance base material of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the fragrance cartridge according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the aroma cartridge according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the fragrance cartridge according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the fragrance cartridge according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the fragrance cartridge according to Embodiment 6. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the fragrance cartridge according to Embodiment 7. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the fragrance cartridge according to embodiment 8. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the fragrance cartridge according to Embodiment 9. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the aroma cartridge according to embodiment 9, showing another capsule configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] [Embodiment 1] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the aroma cartridge according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the aroma cartridge according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the aroma cartridge. Fig. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the aroma cartridge according to this embodiment.

[0023] [Configuration of the aroma cartridge 100] 1 and 2, the aroma cartridge 100 can be used in a cartridge for a heated tobacco product. Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the aroma cartridge 100 is a cartridge used in a heated tobacco product, which is an inhalation device having an electric heating means.

[0024] The aroma cartridge 100 comprises a cylindrical cover 10, an aroma base material 20 housed in one end of the cover 10, a filter 30 housed in the other end of the cover 10, and a support member 40 housed in the cover 10 and disposed between the aroma base material 20 and the filter 30. In this embodiment, the aroma base material 20, the support member 40, and the filter 30 are disposed along the axial direction of the cover 10 from one end to the other end.

[0025] The cover 10 is composed of a cigarette paper 11 that covers the fragrant substrate 20, a base material 12 that covers the fragrant substrate 20, the support member 40, and the filter 30 from the outside of the cigarette paper 11, and a tipping paper 13 that further covers the outer periphery of the filter 30 from the outside of the base material 12. The base material 12 is joined to the cigarette paper 11 and the tipping paper 13 by means of adhesion, heat fusion, or the like.

[0026] The cigarette paper 11, the substrate 12, and the tipping paper 13 may be made of, for example, paper, a synthetic resin film, a metal foil, or the like, or may be a composite sheet formed by laminating these. Furthermore, an adhesive or fusible layer such as an adhesive layer or a hot melt layer may be formed on the inner surface of the cigarette paper 11, the substrate 12, and the tipping paper 13.

[0027] In this embodiment, the cigarette paper 11 serves to gather the aroma base materials 20 together to form a columnar shape. The substrate 12 serves to connect the aroma base materials 20, the support member 40, and the filter 30. The tipping paper 13 serves to reinforce the portion (mouthpiece) where the user holds the aroma cartridge 100 in their mouth. Note that the cover 10 is not limited to one in which the cigarette paper 11, the substrate 12, and the tipping paper 13 are individually configured, and may be, for example, configured as a single sheet in which the cigarette paper 11, the substrate 12, and the tipping paper 13 are integrated.

[0028] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the fragrant substrate 20, the support member 40, and the filter 30 are arranged along the axial direction of the cover 10 from one end to the other end.

[0029] The fragrant base material 20 is an aggregate of rod-shaped, strip-shaped, powder-shaped, granular, pellet-shaped, small piece-shaped, sheet-shaped, fibrous, porous, or block-shaped constituent elements. In this embodiment, the fragrant base material 20 is formed into a cylindrical shape as a whole by strip-shaped constituent elements.

[0030] The aroma base material 20 can generate an aerosol by being heated by the electric heating means of the heated smoking device. The aroma base material 20 is preferably a material containing a ground and dried plant material, not limited to tobacco plants, but also non-tobacco plants, an aerosol former capable of generating an aerosol, and a thermofusible substance that melts when heated. The composition of the aroma base material 20 will be described later.

[0031] The filter 30 preferably has a certain degree of breathability to the mainstream smoke or aerosol generated from the aromatic base material 20, and has the function of capturing solid particles contained in the mainstream smoke or aerosol and adsorbing harmful components, etc. The shape of the filter 30 is not particularly limited as long as it can be wrapped in the cover 10.

[0032] The filter 30 may be, for example, an acetate filter using acetate fibers, a charcoal filter containing activated carbon in an acetate filter, or AFT (Advanced Filter Technology) (registered trademark) having a plurality of grooves recessed from the outer peripheral surface of the filter 30 to the axial direction of the cover 10. In this embodiment, the filter 30 is fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the base material 12 of the cover 10 by a fixing means such as adhesion or welding.

[0033] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the support member 40 is located between the fragrant substrate 20 and the filter 30 and is disposed adjacent to each of them. The support member 40 may have an outer peripheral surface that corresponds to the shape of the inner peripheral surface of the cover 10. In this embodiment, the support member 40 is formed into a cylindrical shape as a whole. The support member 40 is fixed to the cover 10 by a fixing means such as adhesion or welding, and in this embodiment, it is fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the substrate 12.

[0034] The shape of the support member 40 is not limited as long as it has a structure that allows ventilation from one end to the other and has the function of restricting movement of the fragrant base material 20 toward the other end.

[0035] In this embodiment, the support member 40 has one or more ventilation passages 41 that penetrate in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the ventilation passages 41 are defined by four recessed grooves formed along the axial direction at equal intervals in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the support member 20 and the inner peripheral surface of the cover 10.

[0036] Furthermore, the ventilation passage 41 may be composed of, for example, one or more through holes formed so as to penetrate in the axial direction from one end face to the other end face of the support member 40. The ventilation passage 41 may be composed of, for example, a central ventilation passage formed along the axial center of the support member 40, and a plurality of ventilation passages arranged side by side in the circumferential direction to surround this central ventilation passage and similarly formed so as to penetrate in the axial direction.

[0037] The support member 40 may also be formed of a honeycomb structure having partition walls with a hexagonal end face shape and a plurality of air passages penetrating in the axial direction. Furthermore, the support member 40 may be formed of a porous body having open cells, for example.

[0038] The support member 40 preferably has a shape at one or both axial end faces of the cover 10, preferably the end face located on the fragrant substrate 20 side, that is capable of restricting the axial movement of the fragrant substrate 20 of the cover 10 when the electrical heating means of the inhaler is inserted. Here, a shape that is capable of restricting the axial movement of the fragrant substrate 20 of the cover 10 may be, for example, a shape that restricts the movement of the material of the fragrant substrate 20 to an extent that does not cause practical problems.

[0039] Because the support member 40 is formed in this manner, when an electric heating means for heating the fragrant substrate 20 of the heated smoking device is inserted from one end of the aroma cartridge 100, the support member 40 restricts movement of the fragrant substrate 20 toward the other end. In other words, the support member 40 can support the fragrant substrate 20.

[0040] Furthermore, the support member 40 can cool the high-temperature aerosol containing the aromatic components generated from the aroma base material 20 as it passes through. For this reason, the support member 40 is made of a material that has heat resistance according to the combustion temperature or heating temperature of the aroma cartridge 100. For example, if the aroma cartridge 100 is a cartridge for a heated smoking device, the support member is preferably made of a material that has heat resistance of about 200 to 350°C.

[0041] Examples of such materials include paper, resin, rubber, wood, metal, and ceramic, but resin that can be molded into various shapes is more preferable.

[0042] The resin may be either a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin, and examples thereof include polyolefin resins, polyester resins, polystyrene resins, nylon resins, acrylic resins, silicone resins, fluorine-based resins, polyurethane resins, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) resins, phenolic resins, amino resins, ABS resins, and biodegradable plastics. Of these resins, biodegradable plastics are preferred from the perspective of protecting the natural environment, since the aroma cartridge 100 becomes waste after use.

[0043] Examples of biodegradable plastics include poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), and polylactic acid (PLA).

[0044] The fragrance substrate 20 of the fragrance cartridge 100 is heated from room temperature or ambient temperature to a target temperature of 200°C or higher by an electric heating means of an inhalation device (not shown). Therefore, the fragrance substrate 20 undergoes a temperature rise process from room temperature or ambient temperature to the target temperature. The user can inhale the aerosol emitted from the fragrance cartridge 100 immediately after the temperature rise process is completed.

[0045] [Configuration of fragrance base material 20] The aroma base material 20 includes a ground and dried plant material that generates an aroma when heated, an aerosol former that generates an aerosol when heated, and a cannabinoid-containing substance. Therefore, the aroma base material 20 can generate an aerosol containing the aroma components when heated. The aroma base material 20 preferably contains at least one of a heat-melting substance that melts when heated, catechin, cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone and / or polyvinylpyrrolidone, and a fragrance.

[0046] In addition to the above, the fragrance base material 20 may also contain, for example, a fragrance that can supplement the fragrance emitted from the crushed and dried plant material, a molding agent that can improve the moldability of the fragrance base material 20, a binder that contributes to binding and integrating the aerosol former and the crushed and dried plant material, a sorbent that can retain the fragrance in the fragrance base material 20, and a preservative that can improve the shelf life of the fragrance base material 20.

[0047] As shown in Figure 4, the aromatic substrate 20 is formed with a two-layer structure consisting of a first substrate 21 that does not contain a cannabinoid-containing substance and a second substrate 22 that contains a cannabinoid-containing substance. In this case, the first substrate 21 is disposed on the distal end side, and the second substrate 22 is disposed on the proximal end side. The second substrate 22 can be formed, for example, by impregnating it with a liquid cannabinoid-containing substance.

[0048] The arrangement of the first substrate 21 and the second substrate 22 is not limited to this example, and for example, the second substrate 22 may be arranged on the distal end side, and the first substrate 21 may be arranged on the proximal end side. Also, a plurality of first substrates 21 and second substrates 22 may be arranged. For example, the first substrates 21 and second substrates 22 may be arranged alternately along the axial direction of the aroma cartridge 100.

[0049] (ground dried plant material) Examples of ground and dried plant materials include tobacco leaves and stems, as well as leaves, stems, flowers, seeds, fruits, bark, roots, and the like of non-tobacco plants.

[0050] The crushed and dried plant materials include, in particular, Chinese tea, black tea, roses, plants of the Oleaceae family, lavender, saffron flowers, shallots, garlic, onions, the rhizomes of konjac, Chinese quince, plants of the Rutaceae family (bitter orange, satsuma mandarin, summer orange, ponkan, hassaku citrus, iyokan, ichan lemon, trifoliate orange, orange, mandarin orange, kabosu, Kishu mandarin, quinot, grapefruit, koji, sanbokan, citron, jabara, sudachi, tachibana, tangor, summer mandarin, hanayuzu, hyuganatsu, Hirami lemon (shikwasa), pomelo (citron), yuzu, lime, lemon, kaffir lime, etc.), plants of the Rosaceae family, peach, apple, pineapple, mango, kiwi, etc. Suitable ingredients for providing a pleasant aroma to the user include, but are not limited to, at least one selected from among orange, melon, pomegranate, plum, apricot, blueberry, plants of the genus Fragaria (Rosaceae), raspberry, banana, and grape fruit, peppermint plants of the genus Mentha (Lamiaceae) (peppermint, Japanese mint, apple mint, water mint, Corsican mint, pennyroyal mint, etc.), spearmint plants of the genus Mentha (Lamiaceae) (spearmint, horse mint, green mentha, chili mint, ginger mint, etc.), catnip, lemon balm, savory, willow mint (hyssop), and the aboveground stems and leaves of plants of the genus Nicotiana (Solanaceae).

[0051] It is preferable that the crushed and dried plant material has three elements: fragrance, which is defined as the scent that wafts from the aroma cartridge 100 itself; aroma, which is defined as the scent that wafts into the air when the aroma cartridge 100 is heated; and flavor, which is defined as the scent that wafts into the mouth when the aroma cartridge 100 is heated and inhaled together with the aerosol.

[0052] The dried, crushed plant material (hereinafter also referred to as fragrance material) that constitutes the fragrance preferably contains at least one selected from Chinese tea, black tea, rose, plants of the Oleaceae family, Osmanthus species, lavender, saffron flowers, and above-ground stems and leaves of plants of the Solanaceae family, Nicotiana species.

[0053] The crushed and dried plant material that constitutes the aroma (hereinafter also referred to as aroma material) preferably contains at least one selected from the rhizomes of scallions, shallots, garlic, onions, and konjac, and the above-ground stems and leaves of plants of the Nicotiana species of the Solanaceae family.

[0054] The ground and dried plants that make up the flavor (hereinafter also referred to as flavor materials) include quince, plants of the genus Citrus in the family Rutaceae (bitter orange, satsuma mandarin, summer orange, ponkan, hassaku, iyokan, ichan lemon, trifoliate orange, orange, mandarin orange, kabosu, Kishu mandarin, quinot, grapefruit, koji, sanbokan, citron, jabara, sudachi, tachibana, tangor, summer mandarin, hanayuzu, hyuganatsu, Hirami lemon (shikwasa), pomelo (citron), yuzu, lime, lemon, kaffir lime, etc.), plants of the genus Peach in the family Rosaceae, apple, pineapple, mango, kumquat, melon, etc. It is preferable that the above-ground stems and leaves of the following plants are selected from the group consisting of rye, pomegranate, plum, apricot, blueberry, plants of the genus Fragaria in the family Rosaceae, raspberry, banana, grape fruit, peppermint plants of the genus Mentha in the family Lamiaceae (peppermint, Japanese mint, apple mint, water mint, Corsican mint, pennyroyal mint, etc.), spearmint plants of the genus Mentha in the family Lamiaceae (spearmint, horse mint, green mentha, chili mint, ginger mint, etc.), catnip, lemon balm, brugman (savory), willow mint (hyssop), and Nicotiana species in the genus Nicotiana in the family Solanaceae.

[0055] (Aerosol former) The aerosol former is added to generate an aerosol when the fragrance base material 20 is heated. Examples of aerosol formers that can be used include glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, diacetin (glycerin diacetate), triacetin (glycerin triacetate), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedionate, and dimethyl tetradecanedione, with glycerin and propylene glycol being particularly preferred.

[0056] <Cannabinoid-containing substances> Cannabinoids are compounds activated by cannabinoid receptors in the human body and are responsible for many of the pharmacological effects of hemp. Plant-derived cannabinoids, also known as phytocannabinoids, are abundant in hemp.

[0057] The cannabinoid-containing substance may be an extract containing a relatively high concentration of cannabinoids extracted from hemp or the like, or may be a purified cannabinoid.It may also be a synthesized cannabinoid or a semi-synthesized cannabinoid obtained by reacting an extracted cannabinoid.

[0058] Various cannabinoids are known, including cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabielsoin (CBE), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabidivarin (CBDV), and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

[0059] However, the inclusion of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is subject to legal restrictions in some countries, and may cause phenomena, symptoms, or effects that are not considered to have desirable stimulating or sedative effects. For this reason, it is preferable that the aroma cartridge 100 of the present invention does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

[0060] Cannabinoids can be extracted from hemp (cannabis sativa), but those extracted from hemp leaves or flowers contain the above-mentioned tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Therefore, those extracted from hemp stalks or seeds, which do not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are preferably used, and those extracted from mature hemp stalks or seeds are particularly preferred.

[0061] The aroma cartridge 100 of the present invention preferably contains at least one cannabinoid selected from the group consisting of cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabielsoin (CBE), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabidivarin (CBDV), and it is particularly preferable that it contains cannabidiol (CBD).

[0062] (Cannabidiol (CBD)) Cannabidiol (CBD) has been reported to have medicinal properties, such as anti-anxiety, anti-epileptic, neuroprotective, vasorelaxant, anti-convulsant, anti-ischemic, anti-cancer, anti-emetic, anti-bacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and bone growth promotion properties.

[0063] In the present invention, the cannabidiol (CBD) content is preferably 80% by mass or more, more preferably 90% by mass or more, and even more preferably 97% by mass or more of the total cannabinoids. It is most preferable to contain cannabidiol (CBD) crystals extracted from hemp stalks or seeds.

[0064] The cannabinoid-containing substance is preferably dissolved in a solvent selected from fats and oils such as olive oil and coconut oil, and alcohol-based solvents such as glycerin and glycol.

[0065] The cannabinoid-containing substance can also be dissolved in a heat-melting substance, which will be described later, and then contained.

[0066] (thermally melting substances) The heat-melting substance is added to melt at a relatively low temperature, dissolving and vaporizing the fragrant components generated from the fragrance base material 20, so that they can be easily emitted together with the aerosol former. The heat-melting substance also serves to fix the fragrant source material and / or the fragrant agent at room temperature.

[0067] The melting point of the heat-fusible substance is in the range of 50 to 100°C, preferably in the range of 50 to 80°C, and more preferably in the range of 60 to 67°C. If the melting point of the heat-fusible substance is below 50°C, the heat-fusible substance may melt and become sticky during hot periods such as summer. If the melting point of the heat-fusible substance is above 100°C, the heat-fusible substance may not melt sufficiently in the early stages of the temperature rise process of the aroma base material, and the aroma of the aerosol may tend to be insufficient immediately after the temperature rise process in the heated smoking device is completed.

[0068] The melting point of a heat-melting substance can be measured, for example, in accordance with the paraffin wax melting point measurement method specified in JIS K 2235. That is, using a specified melting point tester, a molten sample is placed in a test tube, the readings on the melting point measurement thermometer are read every 15 seconds, and the temperature at which the temperature drop is within a certain range (a difference of 0.1°C or less for five consecutive readings) can be measured as the melting point.

[0069] The heat-fusible substance is preferably in powder form. The average particle size of the heat-fusible substance is preferably 125 to 355 μm, more preferably 150 to 300 μm, and even more preferably 180 to 250 μm. The average particle size can be measured, for example, by a laser diffraction particle size distribution analyzer. In the present invention, the average particle size refers to the median diameter.

[0070] If the average particle size of the thermally melting substance is too large, the total surface area of ​​the substance will be small, reducing the chance of contact with the heat source. As a result, the thermally melting substance will not be melted sufficiently, and the concentration of the aromatic component in the aerosol immediately after the temperature rise process will tend to be reduced.

[0071] If the outer diameter of the thermally fusible substance is too small, it becomes difficult to form an island-sea structure in which the thermally fusible substance is dispersed in the fragrance base material 20, as described below. As a result, each of the thermally fusible substances exists in the fragrance base material 20 as aggregated masses, which creates regions where the melting rate upon contact with the heat source decreases, and the concentration of the fragrance components in the aerosol immediately after the temperature rise process tends to decrease. The thermally fusible substance is preferably contained in the fragrance base material 20 in an amount of 2 to 20% by mass, preferably 3 to 15% by mass, and more preferably 5 to 15% by mass.

[0072] In order to balance the volatilization amounts of the smoke components and the aromatic components, the blend amounts of the fragrance source material, the aerosol former, and the thermally melting substance are preferably 55 to 75% by mass, 20 to 40% by mass, and 2 to 15% by mass, respectively, and more preferably 60 to 70% by mass, 25 to 35% by mass, and 3 to 10% by mass.

[0073] The heat-melting substance is not particularly limited as long as it is an "organic compound that exhibits a melting point or softening point and becomes a non-Newtonian fluid when heated." The heat-melting substance is preferably an organic compound generally known as wax, and typical examples of wax include petroleum-based natural waxes, synthetic waxes, plant-based natural waxes, and animal-based natural waxes. Various tackifiers, including rosin, which is also used as wax, can also be used. These can be used alone or as a mixture containing at least one selected from these.

[0074] As the heat-melting substance, natural plant waxes and natural animal waxes are preferably used because they have a desirable melting point and can impart a flavor. Examples of natural plant waxes that can be used include hazel wax, lacquer wax, carnauba wax, sugarcane wax, palm wax, and candelilla wax. Natural animal waxes that can be used include beeswax, spermaceti, privet wax, wool wax, and shellac. These waxes are easily obtained with a melting point in the range of 50 to 100°C specified in the present invention, and because they possess a desirable flavor, they can enhance the aroma of the aerosol. Among these natural waxes, carnauba wax, beeswax, petrolatum, and paraffin wax are particularly preferred, with beeswax, which has a melting point of 62 to 65°C and is rich in aromatic components, being the most preferred.

[0075] The main components of natural plant waxes and natural animal waxes are esters of fatty acids and fatty alcohols. Natural plant waxes and natural animal waxes are mixtures of esters of fatty acids with various carbon numbers and fatty alcohols, and also contain free fatty acids, free fatty alcohols, hydrocarbons, etc. Therefore, natural plant waxes and natural animal waxes are characterized by a wide molecular weight distribution, a wide melting point temperature range, and high viscosity when melted.

[0076] Petroleum-based natural waxes are hydrocarbon compounds, and therefore have the advantage of having little interaction with the aromatic components and aerosol formers, and are unlikely to adversely affect the flavor. Preferred examples of petroleum-based natural waxes that can be used include vaseline, paraffin wax, and microcrystalline wax.

[0077] These petroleum-based natural waxes have different melting point temperature ranges based on their molecular structure. Vaseline is a mixture of branched hydrocarbons and alicyclic hydrocarbons, and has a wide melting point range of 36 to 60°C. Paraffin wax is mainly composed of straight-chain hydrocarbons, has high crystallinity, and most of them have a melting point of 40 to 70°C, which is a narrow temperature range of the melting point.

[0078] Microcrystalline wax is a mixture of branched hydrocarbons and saturated cyclic hydrocarbons, and although it has low crystallinity, it has a high molecular weight and exhibits the highest melting point of 60 to 90°C, with the second widest melting point range after petrolatum.

[0079] These petroleum-derived natural waxes are hydrocarbon compounds extracted from crude oil. Paraffin wax and microcrystalline wax have low melt viscosity and surface energy when thermally melted, and also have little interaction with aromatic components and aerosol formers.

[0080] Examples of such paraffin waxes include standard products such as Paraffin Wax-115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, and 155 manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd., and any of these products is preferably used. Special paraffin waxes, such as the HNP series, which are high-purity refined paraffin waxes specially manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd., the SP series for specific applications, and the EMW series, which are manufactured by a special manufacturing method and contain isoparaffin as the main component, are also preferably used. Examples of microcrystalline waxes that are preferably used include the Hi-Mic series manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd.

[0081] Examples of synthetic waxes that can be preferably used include Fischer-Tropsch wax, polyethylene (PE) wax, modified PE wax, polypropylene (PP) wax, modified PP wax, fatty acid amide, fatty acid, aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyalkylene glycol, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, and polyoxyethylene alkylamine.

[0082] In particular, since Fischer-Tropsch wax is a linear hydrocarbon-based organic compound, it has low melt viscosity and surface energy when thermally melted, and also has little interaction with aerosol formers and aromatic components. As the Fischer-Tropsch wax, a medium-melting point product such as C80 (melting point: approximately 85 to 88°C) can be used.

[0083] PE wax and modified PE wax, and PP wax and modified PP wax are also hydrocarbon compounds and can be preferably used. Specifically, "HIWAX (registered trademark)" manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc., "SANWAX" and "VISCOL" manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd., and "CERAFAK (registered trademark) 929, 950, 913, 914, 915" manufactured by BYK can be preferably used.

[0084] In particular, metallocene-catalyzed polyolefin waxes are more preferred because of their narrow molecular weight distribution. For example, the metallocene-catalyzed PE wax "EXCEREX (registered trademark)" manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. has a melting point of 89 to 128°C due to its narrow molecular weight distribution and composition distribution, but its melt viscosity during thermal melting is low, making it an excellent polyolefin wax.

[0085] In addition to the above, fatty acid amides, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, etc. can also be used as the heat-melting substance. As fatty acid amides, monoamides and bisamides are suitable. As monoamides, stearic acid monoamide, oleic acid monoamide, and erucic acid monoamide are preferred, as they have melting points of approximately 72 to 105°C.

[0086] In addition to the cannabinoid-containing substance, the aroma cartridge 100 of the present invention can also contain other physiologically active substances such as catechin, caffeine, and theanine, refreshing agents such as menthol, flavorings such as coffee extract, and fragrances.

[0087] (Catechin) The catechin preferably includes epicatechin, catechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, catechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallate, and gallocatechin gallate, and among these catechins, epicatechin and epigallocatechin are particularly preferred. In the present invention, purified catechins containing these catechins at high purity are used. Alternatively, an extract obtained by extracting a plant containing catechins with an appropriate solvent, or a crude product obtained by crudely purifying the extract so as to increase the catechin content, can also be used.

[0088] Examples of plants that contain catechins include tea leaves selected from sencha, hojicha, kabusecha, and gyokuro. Catechins can be obtained by extracting these tea leaves with a solvent such as water, an alcohol such as ethanol or methanol, or acetone, and further fractionating the extract as needed. For example, tea leaves can be extracted with hot water, and the resulting extract can be fractionated with an organic solvent such as ethyl acetate and dried to obtain a powder containing 30 to 98% by mass of catechins such as epigallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, epicatechin gallate, catechin gallate, epigallocatechin, gallocatechin, epicatechin, and (+)catechin.

[0089] The powder containing catechin preferably contains 0.03% by mass or more of catechin, more preferably 0.1 to 5% by mass, and even more preferably 1 to 4% by mass. Catechin powders containing high concentrations of catechin are commercially available from various companies, and these commercially available products can also be used.

[0090] The catechin content can be determined by, for example, the ferrous tartrate method (Reports of Tea Research 71 (1990) 43-74), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), or the like.

[0091] (caffeine) Caffeine is the most distinctive component of coffee, and is also found in many foods such as tea, cocoa, and cola. Caffeine's effects are widely known to include a stimulating effect that helps wake people up and a diuretic effect that promotes urinary excretion. Its various other effects have also been identified, including "enhancing autonomic nervous function," "increasing concentration and improving work ability," and "improving athletic performance." The inclusion of caffeine can refresh the mind of users who inhale the aerosol, wake them up from drowsiness, and provide them with antipyretic and analgesic effects.

[0092] Caffeine is preferably contained in an amount of 1 to 50 mg, more preferably 5 to 30 mg, and even more preferably 10 to 20 mg, per aroma cartridge 100. Caffeine can also be added as a component contained in coffee extract as a flavoring agent, which will be described later.

[0093] (Theanine) Theanine can be contained in aroma base material 20 using, for example, an extract of tea leaves extracted with hot water, green tea leaf powder, green tea leaf extract, green tea leaf flavoring, etc. The inclusion of theanine in aroma base material 20 can suppress the sympathetic nervous activity of the user who inhales the aerosol, thereby relaxing the user.

[0094] The aroma base material 20 of one aroma cartridge 100 preferably contains 10 to 100 mg, more preferably 20 to 80 mg, and even more preferably 30 to 60 mg of theanine to achieve a relaxing effect for users with low anxiety tendencies. The aroma base material 20 of one aroma cartridge 100 preferably contains 20 to 120 mg, more preferably 30 to 100 mg, and even more preferably 40 to 80 mg of theanine to achieve a relaxing effect for users with high anxiety tendencies.

[0095] Furthermore, theanine is preferably contained in the fragrance base material 20 at 3.3 to 33 mass%, preferably 6.6 to 26 mass%, and more preferably 10 to 24 mass%, for users with low anxiety tendencies to achieve a relaxing effect. Theanine is preferably contained at 6.6 to 10 mass%, preferably 10 to 33.3 mass%, and more preferably 13.3 to 26.6 mass%, for users with high anxiety tendencies to achieve a relaxing effect. When theanine is contained at 100 mass% or more of the fragrance base material 20, the theanine may be enclosed in the above-mentioned capsules and contained in the fragrance cartridge 100.

[0096] (Refreshing agent) Examples of the cooling agent that can be used include menthol, menthol derivatives, menthone, menthone derivatives, menthanecarboxylic acid amide, 2,3-dimethyl-2-(2-propyl)-butyric acid derivatives, menthane, menthane derivatives, L-carvone, xylitol, eucalyptus essential oil, peppermint oil, spearmint essential oil, and spilanthol.

[0097] (Ingredients extracted from coffee) The components extracted from coffee preferably include coffee aroma components such as caffeine, pyridine, methylpyrazine, acetic acid, furfuryl alcohol, cyclotene, 1H-pyrrolecarbaldehyde, hydroxypyridine, hydroxyacetone, furfural, methylfurfural, and maltol.

[0098] Examples of components extracted from coffee include coffee bean powder, coffee extract, coffee flavoring, and green coffee extract.

[0099] The aroma base material 20 of one aroma cartridge 100 preferably contains 0.3 to 60 mg of components extracted from coffee, more preferably 1.5 to 30 mg, and even more preferably 3 to 15 mg.

[0100] The aroma base material 20 preferably contains 0.1 to 20% by mass of the components extracted from coffee, more preferably 0.5 to 10% by mass, and even more preferably 1 to 5% by mass.

[0101] (fragrance) The flavoring agent can be any of natural flavoring agents, synthetic flavoring agents, and compound flavoring agents. It can also be used as a flavor (food additive) or a fragrance (cosmetic flavoring agent).

[0102] The types of fragrances that can be used include citrus, floral, fruit, milk, chypre, oriental, (recreational) food and beverage, pre-made (recreational) smoking accessories, vanilla, mint, sweetener, spice, nut, and alcoholic beverage.

[0103] Among these, preferred are citrus, fruit, and mint flavors that give a refreshing feeling; relaxing flavors associated with (favourite) foods and beverages such as chocolate, milk, and coffee; and sweet flavors such as vanilla, floral, and sweetener flavors.

[0104] (sorbent) In the present invention, a sorbent is preferably used to prevent the volatilization of the freshening agent, fragrance, etc. before the temperature of the aroma base material 20 reaches the optimum temperature for the volatilization of the aerosol former and the aroma source material. As described above, the sorbent allows the aromatic agents such as the freshening agent and fragrance to remain in the heated aroma-generating material 20.

[0105] As a preferred embodiment of the sorbent, a sorbent that adsorbs the compound and thereby retains it in the aroma-generating substrate 20 can be used. For example, when the compound is menthol, menthol has a phenolic hydroxyl group. Therefore, the sorbent can be a hydrophilic cross-linked polymer capable of adsorbing the phenolic hydroxyl group, such as cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVPP) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

[0106] For example, when the compound is nicotine, nicotine has a five-membered heterocyclic compound containing nitrogen, and therefore, crosslinked PVP, which is thought to interact with the five-membered heterocyclic compound containing nitrogen, can be used as the sorbent.

[0107] When crosslinked PVP and / or PVP is used as the sorbent, the sorbent is preferably contained in an amount of 4 to 25 mass%, more preferably 5 to 20 mass%, relative to 100 mass% of the total amount of the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance.

[0108] As the sorbent, a sorbent that encapsulates the compound and thereby retains it in the aroma-generating substrate 20 can be used, and cyclodextrin can be used as such a sorbent.

[0109] Cyclodextrins are known to form inclusion compounds with chemical substances having hydroxyl groups or carboxyl groups of various sizes, and any of α-, β-, and γ-cyclodextrins can be used. In particular, β-cyclodextrin forms an inclusion compound with menthol and is the most suitable sorbent for menthol.

[0110] When cyclodextrin is used as the sorbent, the sorbent is preferably contained in an amount of 0.1 to 1.2 mass%, more preferably 0.2 to 1.0 mass%, relative to 100 mass% of the total amount of the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance.

[0111] The sorbent also plays a role in adsorbing and retaining physiologically active substances such as cannabinoid-containing substances, catechin, caffeine, and theanine. It is more preferable that the sorbent contains both PVPP and cyclodextrin.

[0112] (molding agent) The molding agent is used to reinforce the physical strength of the fragrance base material 20. Examples of the molding agent that can be used include cellulose fiber and microcrystalline cellulose.

[0113] Preferred cellulose fibers include those derived from sugarcane, bamboo, wheat, rice, esparto, jute, hemp, and wood. These cellulose fibers preferably have a diameter of 5 to 25 μm and a length of 0.25 to 6 mm. Using cellulose fibers with diameters and lengths within these ranges can enhance the binding effect of the components of the fragrance base material 20.

[0114] Furthermore, the microcrystalline cellulose preferably has an average particle size of 70 to 120 μm. If the average particle size of the microcrystalline cellulose is less than 70 μm, it tends to be difficult to suppress shrinkage of the fragrance base material 20 and to prevent adhesion between the fragrance base material 20 and the molding machine. If the average particle size of the microcrystalline cellulose exceeds 120 μm, the fragrance base material 20 tends to be easily broken. The average particle size of the microcrystalline cellulose can be measured using a laser diffraction particle size distribution analyzer. In the present invention, the average particle size refers to the median diameter.

[0115] The mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the microcrystalline cellulose is preferably 20,000 to 60,000. If the mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the microcrystalline cellulose is less than 20,000, the effect of suppressing the shrinkage of the fragrant base material 20 tends to be poor. If the mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the microcrystalline cellulose is more than 60,000, the fragrant base material 20 tends to be easily broken.

[0116] The forming agent is preferably contained in an amount of 2 to 25% by mass, and more preferably 3 to 20% by mass, relative to 100% by mass of the total amount of the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance. By containing the forming agent in this manner in the fragrance base material 20, it can fulfill the above-mentioned functions and prevent the forming agent from causing adverse effects such as the generation of volatile matter from the fragrance source material and aerosol former.

[0117] (binder) The binder is used to bind together the raw materials that make up the fragrance base material, such as the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance. Examples of binders that can be used include polysaccharide polymers, cellulose polymers, and calcium carbonate.

[0118] Examples of polysaccharide polymers that can be used include konjac mannan (glucomannan), guar gum, pectin, carrageenan, tamarin seed gum, gum arabic, soybean polysaccharides, locust bean gum, karaya gum, xanthan gum, agar, etc. From the viewpoints of strength and the above-mentioned moldability, glucomannan, guar gum, pectin, carrageenan, tamarin seed gum, locust bean gum, karaya gum, and xanthan gum are preferred as polysaccharide polymers, and neutral polysaccharides such as glucomannan, guar gum, tamarin seed gum, and locust bean gum are more preferred.

[0119] Examples of cellulose-based polymers that can be used include carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), carboxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, the sodium salt of CMC, the potassium salt of CMC, the calcium salt of CMC, the sodium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose, the potassium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose, and the calcium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose. From the viewpoints of the strength and moldability of the fragrance substrate 20, the sodium salt of CMC, the potassium salt of CMC, the sodium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose, and the potassium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose are preferred as the cellulose-based polymer.

[0120] As the binder, it is preferable to use a polysaccharide polymer in combination with a cellulose polymer. In this case, it is preferable to use glucomannan, guar gum, tamarin seed gum, or locust bean gum as the polysaccharide polymer. It is also preferable to use sodium CMC, potassium CMC, sodium carboxyethyl cellulose, or potassium carboxyethyl cellulose as the cellulose polymer. In this way, by using a polysaccharide polymer in combination with a cellulose polymer, it is possible to improve the strength and moldability of the aromatic base material 20.

[0121] The binder is preferably contained in an amount of 5 to 30% by mass, and more preferably 8 to 28% by mass, relative to 100% by mass of the total amount of the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance. By containing the binder in such an amount in the fragrance base material 20, the strength and moldability of the fragrance base material 20 can be improved, and adverse effects on the generation of volatile substances from the fragrance source material and aerosol former can be avoided.

[0122] Furthermore, it is preferable that both a binder and a forming agent are contained in the aromatic base material 20 of the present invention. In this case, the blending ratio of the binder to the forming agent is preferably 1:1 to 1:25 by mass in terms of the binding effect.

[0123] (preservative) To preserve the heated aroma-emitting cartridge for a long period of time, a preservative may be used. Examples of the preservative include potassium sorbate and / or sodium benzoate. The preservative is preferably contained in an amount of 0.005 to 0.04% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total amount of the aroma source material, aerosol former, and thermally melting substance.

[0124] Next, a method for producing the second substrate 22 of the fragrance substrate 20 will be described. FIG. 5 shows one embodiment of the manufacturing process for the second substrate 22 of the fragrance substrate 20. As shown in FIG. 5, a mixing step is performed in which raw materials (A) including fragrance materials, which are ground and dried plants that constitute the fragrance, flavor materials, etc., which are ground and dried plants that constitute the flavor, and raw materials (B) including aroma materials, etc., which are ground and dried plants that constitute the aroma, are mixed together. The mixing step is performed below the melting point of the heat-melting substance. The mixing step can be performed using, for example, a known mixer.

[0125] Raw material (A) is obtained by mixing and maturing raw material (A1) containing a fragrance material, which is a crushed and dried product of plants that make up the fragrance; raw material (A2) containing a flavor material, which is a crushed and dried product of plants that make up the flavor, a cannabinoid-containing substance, and a heat-fusible substance; raw material (A3) containing an alcohol-water solution of microcrystalline cellulose, an alcohol-water solution of a binder, and an alcohol-water solution of a sorbent; and raw material (A4) containing an aerosol former, a fragrance, and a molding agent.

[0126] The raw materials (A1) to (A4) are mixed at a temperature below the melting point of the heat-melting substance, and this mixing step can be carried out using, for example, a known mixer.

[0127] The raw material (A1) is obtained by sterilizing a fragrance material and then pulverizing it.

[0128] Raw material (A2) is obtained by sterilizing a mixture of a flavoring material, a cannabinoid-containing substance, and a heat-melting substance, followed by pulverization. Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the flavoring material is sterilized and then pulverized to a predetermined size. Alternatively, a powdered heat-melting substance and a cannabinoid-containing substance are heated and mixed at a temperature above the melting point of the heat-melting substance, cooled, and then pulverized to a predetermined size. The pulverized product and a powdered flavoring material are preferably compressed and sheared, cooled, and then pulverized to produce raw material (A2).

[0129] The raw material (A3) is obtained by mixing an alcoholic solution of microcrystalline cellulose, an alcoholic solution of a binder, and an alcoholic solution of a sorbent (crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone and / or polyvinylpyrrolidone). The alcoholic solution is a mixture of pure water and ethanol.

[0130] The raw material (A4) is obtained by mixing an aerosol former, a fragrance, and a molding agent.

[0131] The aging is preferably carried out for 3 to 14 days at a temperature of 15 to 30° C. From the viewpoint of preserving the aromatic components, the aging is more preferably carried out for 4 to 7 days at a temperature of 20±2° C. If the temperature exceeds 30° C. or the aging period exceeds 14 days, the possibility of mold growth and spoilage tends to increase.

[0132] The raw material (B) is obtained by mixing raw material (B1) containing an aroma material, which is a dried, ground product of a plant that constitutes the aroma, with raw material (B2) containing a preservative. The raw materials (B1) and (B2) can be mixed, for example, using a known mixer.

[0133] The raw material (B1) is obtained by sterilizing an aromatic material and then crushing it. The raw material (B2) is obtained by dissolving a preservative in pure water.

[0134] By carrying out the mixing process of mixing raw materials (A) and (B) in this manner, a sea-island structure can be formed in which powder of the heat-melting substance mixed with the fragrance source material is dispersed in the fragrance base material 20.

[0135] Next, the mixture obtained in the mixing step is compressed and sheared to form a sheet. The compression and shearing can be carried out using, for example, a three-roll mill. By performing the compression and shearing using a three-roll mill, the mixture can be formed into a sheet while incorporating air and evaporating water.

[0136] The sheet obtained in this manner has a porous structure containing air inside, which makes it possible to obtain a low-density fragrance base material 20. In addition, since the rolls of the three-roll mill have extremely flat surfaces, the surface of the sheet is formed flat.

[0137] That is, the aromatic base material 20 has a porous structure containing air inside due to compression and shear processing, and therefore has a low density and a flat surface without irregularities.

[0138] The mixture formed into a sheet by compression and shearing is then cut into a predetermined shape and size in a cutting step. The sheet-like mixture is then processed into, for example, a strip shape.

[0139] The first substrate 21 can be produced by the above-described manufacturing method, excluding the cannabinoid-containing substance from the raw materials of the second substrate 22. The aroma substrate 20 thus produced, including the first substrate 21 and the second substrate 22, is placed on the cover 10 together with the filter 30 and the support member 40. The cover 10 is then rolled up to encase these components, and the ends of the cover 10 are fastened together to produce the aroma cartridge 100.

[0140] In this way, by carrying out the mixing process, compression / shearing process, and cutting process below the melting point of the heat-melting substance, it is possible to prevent the melting of the heat-melting substance from spreading throughout the entire fragrance base material 20, and to maintain the sea-island structure of the heat-melting substance in the fragrance base material 20.

[0141] When a sea-island structure is formed in which the powder of the heat-melting substance mixed with the fragrance source material is dispersed in the fragrance base material 20, the heat-melting substance is dispersed and arranged in the form of islands in the fragrance base material 20.

[0142] The thermally fusible substance is more likely to flow when melted and to contain the aromatic components generated from the aromatic source material when dispersed in the form of islands in the aromatic base material 20 than when impregnated in the aromatic source material. Furthermore, when the flowing thermally fusible substance comes into contact with the aerosol former, the aromatic components can be more easily turned into aerosol together with the aerosol former and evaporated.

[0143] As a result, the aromatic components of the aroma source material can be efficiently volatilized, allowing the user to fully enjoy the aroma when inhaling the aerosol emitted from the aroma cartridge 100 immediately after the heating process of the heated smoking device has finished.

[0144] The cannabinoid-containing substance may be added to raw material (B). Figure 7 shows another embodiment of the process for producing the aromatic base material 20. As shown in Figure 7, when the cannabinoid-containing substance is added to raw material (B), it may be added to raw material (B1), for example. In this case, it is advisable to prepare the raw material (B1) in the manner shown in FIG. 7, that is, by replacing the flavor material with an aroma material.

[0145] As described above, according to the aroma cartridge 100 of the present invention, the cannabinoid-containing substance is contained in a liquid or solid state or is encapsulated in one location of the aroma cartridge 100, thereby making it possible to incorporate cannabinoids into the aerosol generated from the aroma base material 20. As a result, the user can inhale the aromatic components and vaporized cannabinoids generated from the aroma base material 20 together with the aerosol, and can expect to enjoy the physiologically active effects of the cannabinoids, such as sedative and analgesic effects, while enjoying the scent of the aromatic components.

[0146] [Embodiment 2] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 2 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 1 in that the cannabinoid-containing substance is contained in an encapsulated form. The same components as those in the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described further.

[0147] Figure 8 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to embodiment 2. As shown in Figure 8, a capsule 50 containing a cannabinoid-containing substance is enclosed in an aroma base material 20. More specifically, the capsule 50 is disposed in the aroma base material 20 at the middle of the aroma cartridge 100 in the axial direction.

[0148] The fragrance base material 20 may be adjusted appropriately depending on the shape and size of the capsule 50. When the fragrance base material 20 is to be used to encapsulate the capsule 50, it is preferable that the fragrance base material 20 be formed into a granular, powdery, paste-like, or other form. By configuring the fragrance base material 20 in this manner, it becomes easier to encapsulate the capsule 50.

[0149] The capsule 50 is, for example, a seamless capsule. When the capsule 50 is crushed by an external force when the user smokes, or when heated by an electrical heating means of the inhalation device, the capsule 50 releases the liquid cannabinoid-containing substance sealed therein. For example, the capsule 50 may be broken by the user pressing the cover 10 that houses the capsule 50, releasing the liquid cannabinoid-containing substance sealed therein. Pressing the capsule 50 with the electrical heating means may also destroy the capsule coating, releasing the liquid cannabinoid-containing substance sealed therein. Alternatively, heating the aroma substrate 20 with the electrical heating means of the inhalation device may melt or destroy the shell of the capsule 50, releasing the liquid cannabinoid-containing substance sealed therein.

[0150] A variety of materials can be used for the shell that encloses the cannabinoid-containing substance in capsule 50. For example, various shells commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry can be used, and such shells may be gelatin-based or made from polymeric materials such as modified cellulose.

[0151] The cannabinoid-containing substance to be enclosed in the capsule 50 may be a liquid in which cannabinoid is dissolved in an oil or alcohol-based solvent as described above.

[0152] For example, if the aroma cartridge 100 is inserted into an inhalation device and the capsule 50 is positioned close to an electric heating means, it is recommended to use an alcohol-based solvent in which cannabinoids are dissolved. When the electric heating means is heated, the alcohol-based solvent evaporates, allowing the user to more effectively ingest the cannabinoids.

[0153] For example, if the aroma cartridge 100 is inserted into an inhalation device and the capsule 50 is positioned away from the electric heating means, it is recommended to use a cannabinoid dissolved in an oil solvent, allowing the user to ingest the cannabinoid along with the aroma of the oil.

[0154] In this way, by incorporating the capsule 50 containing the cannabinoid-containing substance into the aroma cartridge 100, the user can inhale the cannabinoid by breaking the capsule 50 immediately before using the aroma cartridge 100. Therefore, the user can expect the physiologically active effects of the cannabinoid, such as sedative and analgesic effects, while enjoying the aroma of the aromatic components. In addition, by filling and holding the cannabinoid-containing substance in the capsule, the denaturation of the cannabinoid during storage can be prevented. This makes it easier to grasp.

[0155] [Embodiment 3] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 3 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 2 in the position where the capsule 50 containing the cannabinoid-containing substance is disposed. The same components as those of the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described.

[0156] Figure 9 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to embodiment 3. As shown in Figure 9, capsules 50 containing a cannabinoid-containing substance are enclosed in an aroma base material 20. More specifically, the capsules 50 are disposed in the aroma base material 20 near the support member 40.

[0157] This allows the aromatic components volatilized by heating the aromatic base material 20 to mix more easily with the cannabinoids released from the capsule 50, making it easier to inhale the cannabinoids together with the aromatic components. Furthermore, the volatilized cannabinoids are generated in the aerosol flow path, allowing the user to ingest a high concentration of cannabinoids.

[0158] [Embodiment 4] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 4 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 2 in the form of the capsule 50 in which the cannabinoid-containing substance is enclosed. The same components as those of the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0159] Figure 10 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to a fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, a plurality of capsules 50 containing a cannabinoid-containing substance are contained in an aroma base material 20. More specifically, six capsules 50 are dispersedly arranged in the aroma base material 20. It is sufficient that at least one of the plurality of capsules 50 contains a cannabinoid-containing substance. The capsules 50 may contain the above-mentioned freshening agent, fragrance, etc.

[0160] This allows the cannabinoid-containing substance to flow out from each of the multiple capsules 60, allowing the cannabinoid-containing substance to flow out evenly throughout the aroma base material 20.

[0161] [Embodiment 5] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 5 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 2 in the position where the capsule 50 in which the cannabinoid-containing substance is enclosed is arranged. The same components as those of the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described.

[0162] Figure 11 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to a fifth embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, a capsule 50 containing a cannabinoid-containing substance is disposed between the aroma substrate 20 and the support member 40 in the axial direction of the aroma cartridge 100. More specifically, in this embodiment, the capsule 50 is formed in an ellipsoidal shape. A space for accommodating the capsule 50 is formed between the aroma substrate 20 and the support member 40.

[0163] This allows the cannabinoid-containing substance flowing out of the capsule to come into contact with the aerosol and aromatic components generated from the aromatic substrate 20, making it easier for the cannabinoids to be contained in the aerosol at high concentrations, allowing the cannabinoids to be effectively inhaled.

[0164] [Embodiment 6] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 6 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 5 in the manner in which the capsules 50 containing the cannabinoid-containing substance are arranged. The same components as those of the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0165] Fig. 12 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to a sixth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 12, a gap is provided between the aroma substrate 20 and the support member 40 in the axial direction of the aroma cartridge 100, and a plurality of capsules 50 containing a cannabinoid-containing substance and a mixing ball 60 are disposed in the gap. More specifically, in this embodiment, two spherical capsules 50 and one mixing ball 60 are disposed. Note that it is sufficient that at least one of the two capsules 50 contains a cannabinoid-containing substance. The capsules 50 may contain the above-mentioned freshener, fragrance, etc.

[0166] The mixing ball 60 has the same size as the capsule 50 and is made of a material harder than the capsule 50, such as resin.

[0167] Therefore, for example, when a user shakes the aroma cartridge 100, the capsule 50 and the mixing ball 60 collide in the gap. The capsule 50 is broken by the collision with the mixing ball 60, releasing the cannabinoid-containing substance.

[0168] By arranging the capsules 50 and the mixing balls 60 in this manner, it becomes easier for the user to break the capsules 50 .

[0169] [Embodiment 7] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 7 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 5 in the position where the capsule 50 in which the cannabinoid-containing substance is enclosed is arranged. The same components as those of the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described.

[0170] Fig. 13 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to a seventh embodiment. As shown in Fig. 13, a gap is formed between the support member 40 and the filter 30 in the axial direction of the aroma cartridge 100. A capsule 50 containing a cannabinoid-containing substance is disposed in the gap. In this embodiment, the capsule 50 is formed in an ellipsoid shape.

[0171] In this way, by arranging the capsule 50 between the support member 40 and the filter 30, when the capsule 50 is broken, the cannabinoid-containing substance is more likely to be impregnated into the filter 30, and a high concentration of the cannabinoid-containing substance can be inhaled through the filter 30. In other words, because the capsule 50 is positioned close to the filter 30 on the mouthpiece side, the user can ingest a higher concentration of cannabinoids.

[0172] [Embodiment 8] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 8 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 1 in the manner in which the cannabinoid-containing substance is contained. The same components as those of the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0173] 14 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to embodiment 8. As shown in FIG. 14, the cannabinoid-containing substance is contained in a filter 30. The filter 30 can be produced, for example, by impregnating the filter 30 with a liquid cannabinoid-containing substance and then drying it. However, the filter 30 is not limited to this embodiment, and can also be produced, for example, by dispersing a powdered cannabinoid-containing substance in the filter 30.

[0174] In this way, by containing the cannabinoid-containing substance in the filter 30, the influence of heat from the aromatic base material 20 heated to a high temperature can be avoided as much as possible, and the cannabinoids generated from the cannabinoid-containing substance can be inhaled.

[0175] The cannabinoid-containing substance may be provided on the cover 10 that covers the outer periphery of the filter 30. In this case, the cannabinoid-containing substance is preferably provided on the tipping paper 13 of the cover 10.

[0176] When the cannabinoid-containing substance is applied to the tipping paper 13, it is preferable to impregnate the tipping paper 13 with the liquid cannabinoid-containing substance and then dry it.

[0177] Therefore, when a user holds the aroma cartridge 100 in their mouth, their lips come into contact with the tipping paper 13 impregnated with the cannabinoid-containing substance. At this time, the cannabinoid-containing substance is ingested into the user's body through their lips. In this way, even if the cannabinoid-containing substance is ingested through the user's skin, i.e., through their lips, it is possible to expect physiologically active effects of the cannabinoid, such as sedative and analgesic effects.

[0178] When providing the tipping paper 13 with a cannabinoid-containing substance, it is advisable to use a filter 30 impregnated with the cannabinoid-containing substance. When using such an aroma cartridge 100, the user can ingest the cannabinoids contained in mainstream smoke and can also ingest the cannabinoids through the lips. Furthermore, cannabinoids volatilized from the filter 30 soak into the tipping paper 13, increasing the cannabinoid concentration in the tipping paper 13 and promoting the uptake of cannabinoids through the skin.

[0179] [Embodiment 9] The aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 9 differs from the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 8 in the manner in which the cannabinoid-containing substance is contained. The same components as those of the aroma cartridge 100 of embodiment 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0180] Fig. 15 shows an aroma cartridge 100 according to the eighth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 15, a capsule 50 containing a cannabinoid-containing substance is enclosed in a filter 30. More specifically, the capsule 50 is inserted into the filter 30 of the aroma cartridge 100. It is located midway in the axial direction.

[0181] The size of the capsule 50 placed in the filter 30 is not particularly limited, but it can be larger than the capsule in the above-described embodiment. That is, if the size of the capsule 50 placed in the fragrance substrate 20 is increased, the amount of fragrance substrate 20 decreases. Furthermore, when placing the capsule 50 in the gap described above, if the capsule is made larger, the gap is also made wider accordingly, which increases the axial length of the fragrance cartridge 100. However, when placing the capsule 50 in the filter 30, such a problem does not occur, and therefore a capsule larger than capsules placed in other positions can be placed.

[0182] In this way, by enclosing the capsule 50 in the filter 30, it is possible to easily break the capsule 50 by pinching the filter 30, and the cannabinoid-containing substance that leaks out when the capsule 50 is broken can be effectively impregnated into the filter 30.

[0183] The shape of the capsule 50 is not limited to a sphere, and may be, for example, an ellipsoid as shown in Figure 16. By making the shape of the capsule 50 an ellipsoid, a larger amount of the cannabinoid-containing substance can be enclosed in the capsule 50. Furthermore, since the length of the capsule 50 is increased, the capsule 50 can be more easily burst when pressed with a finger.

[0184] The cannabinoid-containing substance may be contained in a material other than a capsule. For example, a liquid cannabinoid-containing substance may be impregnated into a sponge material such as polyurethane or a porous material such as pumice. By impregnating a sponge material or porous material with the cannabinoid-containing substance in this way, a larger amount of the cannabinoid-containing substance can be impregnated than when the cannabinoid-containing substance is impregnated into the fragrance substrate 20. Furthermore, the fragrance cartridge 100 can be produced more easily than when the cannabinoid-containing substance is contained in a capsule 50. [Example]

[0185] [Test Example 1] (Sensory evaluation of flavor) An aromatic base material containing a cannabinoid-containing substance and cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone was prepared as an example, and an aromatic base material not containing at least one of the cannabinoid-containing substance and cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone was prepared as a comparison example, and the flavors of both aerosols were evaluated.

[0186] (Sample Preparation: Example 1) The aroma cartridge 100 of Example 1 was produced with the formulation shown in Table 1. Specifically, the basic formulation was a blend of aroma source materials (aroma materials, fragrance materials, and flavor materials), a cannabinoid-containing substance, an aerosol former, and a thermally melting substance. In Example 1, the basic formulation was 65% by mass of aroma source materials and cannabinoid-containing substance, 25% by mass of aerosol former, and 10% by mass of a thermally melting substance.

[0187] To 100 parts by mass of the basic formulation, 15 parts by mass of fragrance, 23 parts by mass of binder, 21 parts by mass of sorbent, 0.005 parts by mass of preservative, and 20 parts by mass of pure water were added to prepare the fragrance cartridge 100 of Example 1. Note that the pure water is added for molding, but is removed from the fragrance base material by drying after molding.

[0188] [Table 1]

[0189] The aroma source materials used were konjac powder as the aroma material for raw material (B1), black tea and osmanthus flowers as the fragrance materials for raw material (A1), and Gynostemma pentaphyllum as the flavor material for raw material (A3).

[0190] The aerosol former used as raw material (A4) was glycerin and propylene glycol. Beeswax was used as the heat-melting substance of raw material (A2). As the fragrance raw material (A4), peppermint oil and menthol were used. The binders used in raw material (A3) were CMC sodium salt and sugarcane fiber. The sorbents used in the raw material (A3) were cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone and β-cyclodextrin. The preservatives used in raw material (B2) were potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate.

[0191] Raw materials (A1) and (A2) were prepared in the manner shown in Figure 6. Specifically, raw material (A1) was prepared by sterilizing the fragrance material and then pulverizing it into powder. Raw material (A2) was prepared by roughly mixing the flavor material, cannabidiol (CBD) / Polyphenol Resin (manufactured by YUNNAN HANSU BIOTECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., Production code: PR001), and a heat-melting substance in a Henschel mixer, compressing and shearing the mixture, cooling it to below 0°C, and pulverizing it. Raw materials (A1) and (A2) were also prepared by screening them with an 80-mesh sieve to have an average particle size of approximately 250 µm.

[0192] Furthermore, an aroma cartridge 100 was produced using raw materials (A) and (B) in the manner shown in Fig. 6. Specifically, a mixing step was carried out in which raw materials (A) and (B) were mixed using a kneader.

[0193] Next, the mixture was compressed and sheared using a three-roll mill to form a sheet with a thickness of 0.28±0.02 mm. The compression and shearing process was carried out below the melting point of beeswax. Then, the sheet was cut into pieces having a width of 1.5±0.1 mm and a length of approximately 240 mm.

[0194] The fragrance base material thus obtained was wrapped in paper to a predetermined filling rate, and the wrapped fragrance base material was then cut into lengths of 11.5 to 12.0 mm and dried to produce fragrance cartridges 100.

[0195] (Preparation of Comparative Example 1) The aroma cartridge 100 of Comparative Example 1 was produced with the formulation shown in Table 4. Comparative Example 1 differs from Example 1 in that it does not contain the cannabinoid-containing substance of raw material (A2). As the rest is the same as Examples 1 to 3, a description of the raw materials and production method will be omitted.

[0196] [Table 2]

[0197] (sensory test) The flavor of the aerosols from the aroma cartridges 100 of Example 1 and Comparative Example 1 was evaluated by 10 panelists using a heated smoking device.

[0198] Eight out of ten panelists evaluated that the aroma cartridge 100 of Example 1 had a more sedative, relaxing effect than the aroma cartridge 100 of Comparative Example 1, and that they also felt benefits such as analgesia. [Explanation of symbols]

[0199] 100 Fragrance Cartridges 10 Cover 20 Aromatic base material 30 filters 40 Support member 50 capsules

Claims

[Claim 1] A cylindrical cover and Housed on one end side of the cover, an aroma base material containing a ground dried plant material that generates an aerosol containing an aroma component when heated; a filter housed at the other end of the cover; and a cannabinoid-containing substance, The cannabinoid-containing substance is encapsulated in a shell made of gelatin or modified cellulose, Contained in one or more of the fragrance cartridges, A fragrance cartridge characterized by:

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